Trail Fast Facts
Gibraltar Falls is a 2.3km, grade 3 hike in Namadgi National Park, Australian Capital Territory. This hike typically takes 1 hour to complete.
Hike Overview
Nestled within Namadgi National Park, Gibraltar Falls offers a picturesque escape just a short drive south of Woods Reserve on Corin Road. The cascading waterfall can be reached via a moderately challenging 2.3 kilometre grade 3 walking track. The walk itself takes roughly 1 hour to complete.
While the beauty of the falls is a draw, it's important to remember that this area is designed for viewing only. Stay on designated walking tracks and trails, and avoid crossing fences for safety reasons. Gibraltar Falls is not a swimming hole. The surrounding rock pools and the waterfall itself pose a significant danger, and swimming is strictly prohibited. Tragic accidents have occurred at this location.
If you're looking for a refreshing dip, head to the nearby swimming area at Gibraltar Creek within Woods Reserve. You can find a list of designated swimming spots within Namadgi National Park on the park website under the "Swimming" section.
Please note that Gibraltar Falls is situated within the Gibraltar Special Purpose Reserve, and dogs are not permitted within the reserve boundaries. If you're travelling with a canine companion, you can leave them at Woods Reserve under supervision, but they cannot accompany you on the walk to the falls. For your convenience, both Gibraltar Falls and Woods Reserve offer picnic shelters, tables, gas barbecues, and basic amenities.
Map and GPX file
Max elevation: 1003 m
Min elevation: 882 m
Total climbing: 182 m
Total descent: -182 m
Getting there
Situated within Namadgi National Park, the starting point can be accessed from Canberra via a scenic route. Head south along the Tuggeranong Parkway, following signs towards Tharwa village. This route will eventually join Kings Highway. Keep an eye out for the turnoff onto Tidbinbilla Road shortly after Tharwa. Follow Tidbinbilla Road for a few kilometres until you see the turnoff onto Corin Road. Take this turn and continue for approximately 7.5 kilometres. You'll see the well-signed Woods Reserve carpark on your left, marking the official starting point for the Gibraltar Falls walk.
Photo gallery
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A quick note: Uploading your photos doesn’t mean you lose ownership. You’ll be credited for any photos you share, and you can request to have them removed at any time.
Track Grade
Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
About the region
The Namadgi National Park lies on Ngunnawal Country. This land, rich in cultural significance, has been managed by the Ngunnawal people for countless generations. Their deep connection to this landscape encompasses cultural, social, environmental, spiritual and economic aspects.
Encompassing over 106,000 hectares, Namadgi National Park safeguards a vast area of alpine, sub-alpine and mountain bushland. Nearly half of the Australian Capital Territory falls within its boundaries. The park is crucial for the preservation of high-altitude sphagnum bogs. These bogs provide critical habitat for endangered species and act as natural reservoirs, slowly releasing clean water that sustains the ACT.
For visitor information, maps, firewood permits, or general inquiries, head to the Namadgi Visitor Centre.
Hikers will find hundreds of kilometres of trails to explore within Namadgi National Park. Before venturing out, it's important to familiarise yourself with the Australian Walking Track Grading System. Additionally, inform someone of your planned route and estimated return time. Be sure to record your trip details in the designated bushwalking registers located throughout the park. Straying from marked trails is only recommended for experienced navigators with proper map and compass skills. As weather conditions in the mountains can change rapidly year-round, always pack warm and waterproof clothing.
Namadgi National Park is home to numerous significant Ngunnawal cultural sites and objects scattered across the landscape. These include the Yankee Hat Rock Art and other locations that hold stories of vital knowledge, cultural values, and wisdom. These sites are deeply important to the Ngunnawal people. Their history is not only documented in archaeological finds but also preserved in the landscape itself, passed down through generations through oral stories, dance, memory, ceremonies and the artistic depictions found in rock art sites.
The Ngunnawal people emphasise the importance of protecting these stories, sites and objects for future generations. Visitors to Namadgi are asked to treat these locations with respect, recognising them as a rich and ancient part of the park's narrative.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
Weather
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.